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Cyclist films furious row after terrifying near miss by motorist ... buth which one had the right of way

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West Midlands Police traffic officer and cyclist, PC Mark Hodson, said: "As a police force we must do our utmost to protect vulnerable road users and show that anyone who puts them in danger through poor driving will be dealt with.

"Cyclists may suddenly need to avoid uneven road surfaces or obstacles like drain covers so it's important to afford them plenty of room when overtaking.

"We know through our work with the Birmingham Cycle forum that close passing is the single biggest deterrent stopping more people from taking to their bikes.

"Some drivers get tunnel vision; they're only focus is on getting from A to B as quickly as possible.

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Motorist fails to give cyclist the required metre and a half of roomCredit: West midlands police

"They don't pay any attention to vulnerable road users and we've attended some horrific scenes where cyclists have been wiped out by drivers who've not even seen them.

"Drivers need to consider that a cyclist they are overtaking could be a police officer and if they don't pass them safely they could be prosecuted."

The operation will see officers saddle up on some of the busiest routes in the West Midlands looking out for motorists who put cyclists at risk.

Drivers will be offered a roadside advice but repeat offenders or anyone deemed to have driven dangerously close to a cyclist may be prosecuted face court.

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West Midlands Police operation is looking out for motorists who put cyclists at riskCredit: SWNS:South West News Service

Between 2010 and 2014 there were 530 KSI crashes (killed or seriously injured) in the West Midlands involving bicycles - with 84 per cent of those involving riders colliding with cars.

David Cox, chair of trustees at cycling charity UK Cycling, said: "Close passes by motorists are hazardous for cyclists and extremely intimidating.

"This may be due to ignorance of the Highway Code and carelessness but sometimes it is done deliberately and aggressively.

"We are delighted that West Midlands Police is to actively target close pass drivers.

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Drivers will be offered a roadside advice but repeat offenders or anyone deemed to have driven dangerously close to a cyclist may be prosecuted face courtCredit: West midlands police

"They are the first UK police force to do so and it is a priority if the West Midlands is going to achieve the health, congestion and sustainability benefits of more active travel.

"The outcome will mean greater safety for everyone who cycles or would like to use a cycle for everyday trips."

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson added: "Anything that educates and, ultimately, prosecutes drivers who put cyclists in danger is to be welcomed."

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